Soils Crossword Puzzle

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Across
  1. 4. Definition of soil viewed as a living ecosystem that supports biological activity and ecosystem functions.
  2. 6. Minerals, organic matter, water, air, and organisms.
  3. 7. (two words) Crops planted to protect and enrich soil between main crop seasons.
  4. 8. The soil’s ability to supply essential nutrients for plant growth.
  5. 9. (two words) The relative size of soil mineral grains (sand, silt, clay) that influences water retention and fertility.
  6. 11. (two words) Benefits provided by healthy soil, such as food production, water filtration, carbon storage, and habitat.
Down
  1. 1. Distinct layers of soil (O, A, B, C, R) that form through weathering and organic accumulation.
  2. 2. The mixture of minerals, organic matter, water, air, and living organisms that forms the upper layer of Earth’s surface.
  3. 3. The three major soil nutrients: Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K).
  4. 5. Symbiotic fungi that form associations with plant roots, enhancing nutrient and water uptake.
  5. 10. The removal of topsoil by wind, water, or human activity.